What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Jacksonville
A car accident can derail your entire day—sending you to the hospital, stranding you without a vehicle, or even forcing you to miss work. But few situations are more frustrating than a hit-and-run.
Knowing that another driver caused your accident and then fled the scene—especially if you’re injured—can leave you feeling angry, helpless, and uncertain about what comes next. The good news? You are not without options. By taking the right steps and working with an experienced Jacksonville hit-and-run accident lawyer, you can protect your rights and start building a path toward recovery.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
When someone leaves the scene, every moment counts. Following these steps can help preserve evidence and strengthen your case:
1. Document the Vehicle
Write down everything you remember about the other vehicle—make, model, color, direction of travel, and any distinguishing features. Even a partial license plate number can be valuable.
2. Call the Police Immediately
Once you’ve noted the details, contact law enforcement. Provide your description to the responding officers and complete an official police report.
3. Look for Witnesses
Check the area for bystanders who may have seen the crash or recognized the driver. Witness statements can be crucial to identifying the at-fault party.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the incident to your insurer right away. Share any information you’ve given to the police so the investigation can move forward.
5. Get Medical Care
Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries—like concussions or internal bleeding—don’t appear immediately but can have serious consequences.
6. Contact a Lawyer
An experienced Jacksonville hit-and-run accident lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and guide you through your legal options.
Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Accidents
Depending on the type of collision, injuries can range from minor to life-altering. Common examples include:
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Cuts, bruises, and abrasions
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Whiplash
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Concussions and other head injuries
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Spinal cord injuries
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Broken bones or fractured ribs
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Facial or dental trauma
Potential Damages You May Recover
A hit-and-run can leave you with significant financial losses. Your lawyer can pursue compensation for:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages and future earning potential
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Vehicle repair or replacement
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Pain and suffering
How Compensation May Be Recovered
Even if the at-fault driver isn’t immediately found, you may still have options:
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
Florida drivers are required to carry PIP insurance, which can cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost income—regardless of fault.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If you have UM coverage, it may help pay for costs related to a hit-and-run. Your lawyer can review your policy to determine what’s available.
Locating the Driver
The strongest cases often come from identifying the driver. Your attorney can work with law enforcement, review surveillance footage, and speak with witnesses to track them down.
Speak With a Jacksonville Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Today
Don’t assume that all hope is lost just because the driver fled the scene. With the right legal team, you can pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Applebaum Accident Group, we fight for hit-and-run victims across Jacksonville. Our attorneys know how to investigate these cases, work with insurers, and hold negligent drivers accountable.
(855)-Call-Paul , 
Call us today for a , no-obligation consultation.
